What do the results mean?

There are three possible results:

Clear response:

Most babies have a clear response from one or both of their ears. This means your baby is unlikely to have a hearing loss. The screener will give you information on how babies respond to sound as they grow. They will tell you what to do if you are worried about your baby's hearing. 

If only one of your baby's ears shows a clear response:

Some babies show a clear response only in one ear. If this happens you may choose to have another hearing test. The screener will give you more information. 

If neither of your baby's ears show a clear response:

Some babies do not show a clear response in either of their ears. It does not always mean your baby has a hearing loss.

The screener will offer you another hearing test for your baby. They will give you more information about what happens next.

Clear responses may not be seen if:

• Your baby is unsettled;
• There is fluid in the ear (from the birth);
• There is too much noise near the baby when the test is done; or
• Your baby has a hearing loss.

If more tests are needed an audiologist (hearing specialist) will send an appointment. This will be sent within four weeks from when you had your baby's hearing screening result.

Babies who have had special care for more than two days

If there is a clear response from both of your baby's ears it is unlikely that your baby has a hearing loss that will affect speech and language development. No further hearing screening tests are needed.  The screener will give you information on how babies respond to sound as they grow and what to do if you have any worries about your baby's hearing.